The Artists Family
By Raphael Soyer

Describe:
-The artist uses edge lines to create a distinct horizontal line between the man and the table.
- There is a lot of emphasis on the expressions if the couple, they are somber and the artist uses shading to portray this.
Analyze:
- Many geometric figures used to distinguish the unclear and confusing aspect of the picture .
- Touches of neutral and darker shaded color add variety and emphasis on the unhappiness of the family.
- The sequence of symmetrical properties give the illusion of unity as a couple but contrast in their expressions.
- Throughout the picture it gives a static illusion because of the frigid ness of the characters positions.

Source: metmusuem.org

The Artists Family 1932

Interpret:
Raphael is trying to portray the instability and uncertainty of the American family during the 1930's. In using dark shades, he gives the illusion of unhappiness, as was the American population post World War 1 and the Depression. The bluriness of the edge lines represent the uncertainty found in a typical household, due to the rise of Hitlers power and Nazism in Europe.